Tips for a Healthy Pregnancy

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Motherhood is perhaps the most beautiful thing one can ever experience. It goes without saying that in this period, a woman has to make sure that she is healthy and taking good care of herself, without any excuse or compromise. If you are thinking of getting pregnant or are already expecting, there are certain things that you must take care of. Here we have listed a few tips for a healthy pregnancy:

No smoking and alcohol

It may seem like the most obvious advice out there; but it is also one of the most important ones. Don’t smoke, even passively, and stay away from alcohol. Make sure you’re resting enough and are in a safe and environment; around people you trust.

Prenatal vitamins

You must consult your advising doctor and she will most probably prescribe some prenatal vitamins for your overall health. The baby’s neural cord, which becomes the brain and the spinal cord, develops in the first month of the pregnancy; hence, it is important that the mother gets the essential nutrients, like folic acid, calcium, and iron. If taking these vitamins make you queasy, try taking them before you sleep along with a light snack. Chewing gum or sucking on candy can also help.

Proper exercise

Staying active is essential for general health but it becomes all the more important when you are pregnant. It reduces stress, controls weight, improves circulation and mood and helps one sleep better. Consult your doctor and apply for pregnancy exercise classes. Walking for fifteen to twenty minutes can also help. But it is best to do these exercises in cool, shaded areas or indoors. Pilates, yoga and swimming are great activities for most pregnant women, but it is absolutely essential that you check with the doctor before joining any programme.

Birth plan

Everyone has a certain plan to conduct their delivery. Write that down, and give a copy to everyone who is involved in your conception. This can include procedures you want to avoid, positions you prefer during labour and delivery, special clothing you’d like to wear, whether you want music or a special focal point, whether you want pain medications, and what to do when complications arise. Discussing all these aspects is important beforehand as they can cause chaos when done in the last minute. It is also important to choose one of the best maternity hospitals in India, for example, Fortis La Femme, much before the actual procedure for advice, counsel and regular check-ups.

Awareness

It is important to educate yourself before the baby is born so that you’re prepared and ready for what is to come next. You can read books and other information about what to expect when pregnant, so that you are confident and in control of the situation in the best way you can.

Chores

Everyday tasks like scrubbing the bathroom or cleaning the pets can become risky when you’re pregnant. So can exposure to toxic chemicals, lifting heavy objects or coming in contact with infections. Hence, avoid heavy lifting, climbing up steps, stools or ladders, changing kitty litter, using harsh chemicals, or standing for long durations, especially near a hot stove. These things can adversely affect your baby. It is also a good idea to wash your hands thoroughly after handling raw meat.

So, keep the above points in mind for a healthy and stress-free pregnancy.